Teresa urges businesses in Erith and Thamesmead to take on more local young people as apprentices

Teresa is supporting National Apprenticeship Week by calling on local businesses in Erith and Thamesmead to look into the benefits of apprenticeships and to take on more young people from local colleges.

According to a recent survey carried out by the National Apprenticeship Service, companies with apprentices benefit significantly over those who don’t. Of the employers surveyed, 82% agreed that apprenticeships give them a good return on investment, 81% agreed that apprenticeships supply their businesses with the practical skills and qualifications that they need for the future, 77% agreed that Apprenticeships are a cost effective recruitment solution and 90% would recommend Apprenticeships to other companies. Apprenticeships also boost staff morale; with 83% agreeing apprenticeships help create a better work environment.

Teresa said:

“Last week we saw record high youth unemployment figures released, with more than a fifth of young people now out of work. There are many qualified young people in Erith and Thamesmead still in education but who will be looking for jobs in the near future. We must have more apprenticeships available to prevent these young people joining the ranks of the unemployed.

“I recently visited the construction department at Bexley College’s Holly Hill Campus and met many talented young people who are concerned there will be no work for them when they leave college. The problem is that the apprenticeships just aren’t there at the moment, so we need more businesses in Erith and Thamesmead to be willing to look into the business benefits of apprenticeships and then take the plunge.

“Apprenticeship Week (7-11 February) is a great opportunity for all business in Erith and Thamesmead to consider taking on an apprentice. Local businesses wishing to find out more about Apprenticeships should visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk or call 08000 150 600.”